WhatsApp is reportedly working on enhancing its payment system by introducing UPI Lite, a feature aimed at making small, frequent transactions more seamless. According to a report by Android Authority, the messaging giant is testing UPI Lite in its latest beta version, potentially setting the stage for a broader rollout. This move could position WhatsApp as a stronger competitor to established digital payment platforms like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm, particularly in India, where UPI-based transactions dominate everyday financial activities.
In a recent teardown of WhatsApp v2.25.5.17 beta, code strings referencing UPI Lite were discovered, confirming that the feature is actively under development. However, since it remains in the testing phase, there is no official timeline for its public release. The beta strings also indicate that UPI Lite transactions will be restricted to the primary device, meaning users won’t be able to access them from linked devices.
For those unfamiliar, UPI Lite is an extension of the widely used Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system. Unlike traditional UPI transactions that require bank authentication for every transaction, UPI Lite allows users to preload a small amount of money into a wallet. This enables faster, real-time transactions without the need for multiple authentication steps. The system is particularly useful for micro-transactions, such as paying for a cup of tea at a roadside stall or purchasing a metro ticket, as it eliminates payment failures caused by banking server congestion.
One of the key highlights of UPI Lite is its pin-free transaction system, which allows payments to be made instantly without requiring additional authentication. The WhatsApp beta version suggests that its UPI Lite integration will follow a similar model, making it more convenient for users making frequent, low-value transactions.
WhatsApp already supports UPI payments in India, but this new feature could enhance its appeal by simplifying everyday payments. With over 500 million users in India, WhatsApp has the potential to make digital transactions more accessible, especially for those in rural and semi-urban areas where seamless micro-transactions can be a game changer. Currently, WhatsApp is not among the apps officially supporting UPI Lite, a list that includes Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and Samsung Wallet. However, this update could change that.
Beyond UPI Lite, WhatsApp is also reportedly working on integrating bill payments into its platform. This would allow users to pay for utilities, recharge mobile plans, and handle other recurring expenses directly through WhatsApp, further expanding its financial services.
As of now, there’s no official confirmation on when UPI Lite or bill payments will be available to all users. However, given WhatsApp’s growing focus on digital payments, these features could be part of a larger effort to establish itself as a comprehensive financial platform in India.
